Lexus LF-FC Concept Previews New Flagship Sedan

28 October, 2015Kelly Pleskot writer

28 October, 2015Kelly Pleskot writer

Lexus pulled the covers off its LF-FC Concept (formerly known as the Progressive Luxury Concept) at the Tokyo Motor Show today. According to the automaker, the LF-FC Concept previews the design direction of a future flagship sedan.

Up front, Lexus has revised its signature spindle grille with a new mesh design. Floating “L-shaped” DRL lights highlight the front end, while dramatic new taillights cascade down the entire rear of the vehicle. Sporty 21-inch aluminum wheels with carbon fiber-reinforced plastic rims finish off the look.

The Lexus LF-FC Concept features the styling of a four-door coupe, which suggests that a future LS model may receive a more athletic body shape. The concept is quite a bit longer than the current LS 460 flagship, measuring 208.7 inches in length instead of its predecessor’s 200 inches. It’s also significantly wider (4.9 inches) and a bit shorter (2.5 inches) than the LS. Of course, the dimensions could change from concept to an eventual production version.

Inside the cabin, the LF-FC features heavily bolstered leather seats, reclining rear seats, and a simplified cabin design with few doodads. Indeed, some of the car’s features can be operated via hand gestures, including audio system controls and ventilation controls. A holographic image on the center console indicates to drivers where the system can interpret the gestures.

Under the sheetmetal, the LF-FC has a clever all-wheel drive setup. A fuel cell system sends power to two in-wheel motors in the front, while also providing juice to the rear wheels. Lexus says this method allows for more precise torque distribution control between the front and rear wheels, improving handling.